Fallen Chicago Police Ofc. Krystal Rivera honored at visitation

Visitation held for fallen Chicago police officer Krystal Rivera

Loved ones gathered to honor fallen Chicago Police Ofc. Krystal Rivera, who was accidentally shot and killed by her partner in the line of duty.

CHICAGO - A public visitation was held on Tuesday for Chicago Police Ofc. Krystal Rivera, who was accidentally shot and killed by her partner during a chase earlier this month.

Fellow officers and loved ones gathered to honor Rivera, 36, who was born and raised in the Humboldt Park neighborhood and was the youngest of three sisters. She is survived by her young daughter, Isabella.

Chicago Police Officer Krystal Rivera | Provided

Rivera was active in her daughter’s youth basketball team, Girl Power, in Niles Park.

"Even though she didn't have the title as coach, she was always texting, asking what she could do to help and that Rivera was the loudest voice at games, cheering players on," said Coach Billy Oliveros. 

The backstory:

The shooting occurred June 5 during a chase on the South Side. Officers were pursuing a suspect who fled into a building in the 8200 block of South Drexel Avenue in Chatham, police said.

Jaylin Arnold, 27, was allegedly the suspect officers initially encountered. During the chase, police said they came across another man, Adrian Rucker, 25, who allegedly pointed a gun in the officers’ direction.

Rivera’s partner fired their weapon and unintentionally struck her in the back. Both suspects were later arrested and face several charges related to the incident.

What's next:

Rivera’s funeral is scheduled for noon Wednesday at Living Word Christian Center in Forest Park.